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Boxelder Bug Identification and Control In Utah

Correct identification is an important first step in pest control.

BOISEA TRIVITTATA
BOISEA TRIVITTATA

Boxelder bugs are black with red markings on their body. They look similar to red fire bugs and other related groups. Immature forms are smaller but easily distinguished from the adults by their lack of wings and red abdomens.

Boxelder bugs are a nuisance, but they are not a health threat. They congregate on exterior walls of buildings in spring and fall and can come indoors and annoy occupants. They overwinter in cracks and crevices in buildings. They also may stain lightly colored materials.

Thorn Pest Services Identify the pest with our Boxelder Bug gallery

Where Can I Find Boxelder Bugs?
Where Can I Find Boxelder Bugs?

Boxelder bugs are found in and around buildings in the spring and fall. They prefer female boxelder trees. During the winter they can be found in cracks and crevices of buildings, especially in sunny areas of exterior walls or leaf littler.

Name:

Boisea trivittata

Diet:

Boxelder bugs prefer box elder seeds, which are only found on female boxelder trees, but may feed on other maple seeds as well.

Impact:

Nuisance

Thorn Pest Services Tips for keeping Boxelder Bugs away

How To Prevent Boxelder Bugs
Pest control experts
  • Remove female boxelder trees from the area if possible.

  • Plant non-maple trees to eventually shade sides of buildings where boxelder bugs like to congregate (south and west walls.)

  • Seal any cracks that may allow boxelder bugs to enter buildings.

  • Use a vacuum cleaner to remove indoor populations and vacuum often during the spring and fall.

  • Apply an appropriately labeled pyrethroid insecticide around windows, doors, eaves and structure perimeters.

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